Chelsea claimed their fifth English Premiership title in 12 years last weekend, by recording a 1-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion. Michy Batshuayi, who was largely disappointing throughout the season, was the unlikely hero on the day, as he scored the goal which led the Blues to the title, in Antonio Conte’s first season as manager. Impressive midfielder N’Golo Kante also won his second successive League title, after also being a key member of the Leicester City team that shocked the World last season by claiming the EPL championship.
The Blues dominated for much of this season and there is no doubt that they fittingly ended the season as Champions. Their domination included an unbeaten run of 13 games, which started with a win over Hull City in October and ended with defeat to the hands of nearest rivals Tottenham in January.
Conte has extended his impressive record at the club level and has now won League titles during his last four seasons as manager. Prior to taking up the managerial job with the Italy national team, which he vacated after Euro 2016 to become Chelsea manager, Conte had won the Serie A title with Juventus in 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2013-14.
At the beginning of the season, many had been skeptical over Conte’s decision to use the 3-4-3 formation for the Blues, it has worked, however, as they can become the first side to win 30 games in a season if they beat Sunderland in their final game of the season. No one truly expected Conte to do so well in his first season, everyone from ardent fans to sport betting experts thought Chelsea would at most reach a Champions League spot.
After the victory over West Brom, the Italian said, “This is for my players. I have to say thanks for their commitment, their attitude and passion, and their will to do something great this season. Now, after this win, I think that we must be happy for all the season. This win is for the players. They deserved this for their great commitment through all the season. We won this title together”.
Though he did not feature much this season, long-serving club captain John Terry will end his career at Stamford Bridge on a good note. It is no secret that Conte will be looking to win back-to back titles. No team has done so since Sir Alex Ferguson did with Manchester United eight years ago.
